Weddings Cakes And Milk: What You Need To Know

Wedding cakes are often the centrepiece of the reception, with many couples wanting a unique and memorable cake. But what about the ingredients? Do wedding cakes contain milk?

The simple answer is yes, wedding cakes often contain milk. Many traditional wedding cake recipes include buttercream frosting, which is typically made with butter and milk. Some recipes also include milk in the cake batter itself, to create a softer and more tender crumb.

However, it is important to note that not all wedding cakes contain milk. Vegan and dairy-free options are available, often made with plant-based milk and butter alternatives. These cakes can be just as delicious and are a great option for couples with dietary restrictions or allergies.

So, while milk is a common ingredient in wedding cakes, it is not a requirement, and couples can choose a cake that suits their needs and preferences.

Wedding cake alternatives for those with dietary restrictions

Wedding cakes often contain dairy products, such as buttercream or fondant, which can pose a problem for guests with dietary restrictions. Here are some alternative dessert options to consider for your wedding day that can accommodate a range of dietary needs:

Mini Desserts Tower

This option offers variety and elegance without sticking to a single cake. You can have individual portions of classic cheesecake topped with fresh fruits or caramel, cupcakes with different flavours and frostings stacked like a tiered cake, or colourful fruit tarts and delicate macarons. Arrange these mini desserts on a tiered display with fresh flowers or seasonal fruits for a stunning and eye-catching centerpiece.

Donut Wall or Tower

A donut wall or tower is a trendy and fun alternative that can be customised with various flavours, such as classic glazed, chocolate, matcha, or maple bacon. You can use a pegboard to hang the donuts or stack them in a tower resembling a traditional cake. Decorate the display with flowers, signage, or even a drizzle station where guests can add their desired toppings. Donut walls offer both a delicious treat and a visual spectacle, making them a great conversation starter.

Waffle or Pancake Stack

For couples who love breakfast foods or are hosting a brunch wedding, a waffle or pancake stack is a perfect choice. Stack waffles or pancakes on a cake stand and top them with fresh berries, whipped cream, and syrup. For a fun twist, provide a toppings station with syrups, fruits, nuts, and whipped cream so guests can create their own customised servings.

Savory Cheese Wheel Cake

A cheese wheel cake is an elegant and sophisticated alternative for those who prefer savoury over sweet. Stack wheels of brie, gouda, and blue cheese to form a "cake" tower, garnished with grapes, figs, edible flowers, and fresh herbs. Serve it with crackers, charcuterie, and fruit for a full grazing experience that doubles as a showpiece and a tasting station.

Dessert Bar with Mixed Treats

Offer a variety of sweets on a dessert bar, such as cookies, brownies, macarons, and candy. You can also include a DIY s'mores or fondue station, where guests can roast marshmallows, dip strawberries or pretzels, and create their own personalised treats. This interactive dessert experience adds a fun and social element to the reception.

When choosing an alternative wedding dessert, it's important to consider your guests' dietary needs. Offering gluten-free, vegan, or sugar-free options ensures that everyone can enjoy the treats. Additionally, match the dessert to your wedding theme and consider the venue setup and weather conditions to ensure the dessert fits the atmosphere and is practical for the space.

How to make a dairy-free cake

Dairy-free cakes are a great option for those who are lactose intolerant or choose not to include dairy in their diet. Here is a guide on how to make a delicious dairy-free cake that your friends and family will love!

Ingredients

For the cake:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
• 2 sticks vegan butter, room temperature
• 1 1/4 cups dairy-free milk, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup rainbow sprinkles (optional)

For the frosting:

• 1/2 cup vegan butter
• 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 5 cups powdered sugar
• 2-4 tablespoons dairy-free milk

Method

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
• Using an electric mixer, cream the vegan butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add the egg whites one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• In a separate bowl, combine the dairy-free milk and vanilla extract.
• Gradually add the milk mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the flour mixture. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.
• If using sprinkles, gently fold them into the batter.
• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
• Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
• To make the frosting, beat the vegan butter, vegetable shortening, and vanilla extract until creamy.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Add dairy-free milk as needed to reach your desired frosting consistency. Beat until smooth.
• Once the cakes are completely cool, assemble the cake by spreading a layer of frosting between each cake layer and covering the top and sides with the remaining frosting.

Tips:

• You can use any unsweetened, plain dairy-free milk of your choice, such as almond, oat, or flax milk.
• For baking, vegan butter sticks are recommended. Earth Balance Vegan Buttery Sticks are a common and nut-free option.
• For the frosting, vegetable shortening is suggested as it gives a better texture and holds its shape better when piped.
• If you want a more classic birthday cake flavor, you can add about 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract to the batter.
• To ensure your cake pans are equally filled, use a kitchen scale.
• To check if your cake is done, look for the center to no longer wobble and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
• If you want to decorate your cake with additional sprinkles, feel free to do so!

Wedding cake assembly and decoration

Planning and Preparation:

Before you begin assembling and decorating, there are a few important steps to ensure a smooth process:

• Meet with the couple to understand their vision and preferences, including the number of guests, the wedding theme and colour scheme, and any specific decorations they desire, such as fresh flowers, marzipan roses, or white chocolate lace.
• Offer a cake tasting session with a variety of cake types and fillings to help them make an informed decision.
• Based on their selections, gather all the necessary ingredients, tools, and equipment, including mixing bowls, pans, spatulas, cake rounds to support each layer, and cake strips to keep cakes level during baking.
• Prepare enough frosting or icing, making a little more than you think you'll need to avoid running out during assembly.
• If using fondant, consider its workability, taste, and cost. Buttercream is a more popular choice as it is easier to work with and tastes better.

Cake Assembly:

• Ensure each cake layer is levelled and cut into the desired number of layers.
• Use drinking straws or plastic dowels as supports between layers to provide stability, especially for taller cakes. Cut the straws to the appropriate length and insert them into the cake, leaving enough space for the next tier.
• When stacking the tiers, use an offset spatula to lift and support the cake. Place the bottom tier on a cake stand or platter, and centre it carefully.
• Repeat this process for any subsequent tiers, nudging and adjusting as needed. Don't worry too much about the top of each tier being perfectly smooth, as it will be covered with decorations.

Cake Decoration:

• Fresh flowers are a classic choice for wedding cakes. Use small to medium-sized flowers to create elegant clusters or cover the entire top of the cake, allowing the bottom half to remain smooth.
• Alternatively, decorate with delicious treats such as macarons, meringues, or cookies tinted to match the wedding colours. Press cookies into the sides of each tier for a unique look.
• Fresh fruit is another appetising option. Berries are a classic, but don't be afraid to use other fruits like peaches, plums, or apricots. Pile the fruit high for a bountiful display.
• Chocolate can be used to create thin shards or plaques to adorn the cake's exterior. Temper the chocolate for a shiny finish, spread it on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and cut it into shards. Wear gloves to avoid fingerprints.
• Piping is a great way to add a "fancier" touch to your cake. Use different sizes of piping tips and frosting colours to create random shapes and patterns, cascading down the cake.
• Other decorations can include sprinkles, chopped nuts, coconut, beads, or plastic figurines, depending on the couple's preferences and the wedding theme.

Final Touches and Transportation:

• Leave enough time for any last-minute fixes and ensure you have extra frosting and decorations on hand.
• Supervise the freezing and thawing process to maintain the freshness of the cake.
• Transporting the cake can be nerve-wracking. Drive slowly and reduce any potential sources of friction or movement in your vehicle that could disturb the cake.
• Plan for some final assembly and touch-ups at the wedding site.

Popular wedding cake flavours

Wedding cakes have evolved from the traditional fruit cake to more modern and unique flavours. Here are some of the most popular wedding cake flavours to consider for your big day:

Classic Flavours

Vanilla is a timeless and versatile choice, often paired with a variety of fillings and icings. You can opt for a simple vanilla sponge with buttercream frosting or a more complex vanilla bean cake with raspberry filling and cream cheese icing. Vanilla is a safe option that will satisfy most guests and is the most popular wedding cake flavour in the UK.

Chocolate is another classic option, perfect for chocolate lovers. A simple chocolate sponge with ganache frosting or a more indulgent cake with salted caramel filling and buttercream icing will be a crowd-pleaser. Chocolate can be adapted to fit any wedding style, from rustic to elegant.

Refreshing Citrus

Lemon is a light and tangy option, perfect for spring and summer weddings. A simple lemon sponge with lemon curd filling and cream cheese icing is a refreshing choice. For a unique twist, consider adding blueberry or raspberry to the mix.

Unique and Vibrant

Red velvet is a stunning and delicious option with its deep red colour and subtle chocolate flavour. It can be paired with a variety of fillings, such as cream cheese or buttercream. Red velvet is an excellent choice for a winter wedding.

Coconut and lime is a unique and refreshing combination, ideal for a summer wedding. It's a light coconut sponge combined with tropical fillings like mango, passionfruit, or lime.

Exciting Twists on Classics

Lavender and honey is a light and floral flavour, perfect for spring and summer nuptials.

Lemon and thyme offer a refreshing and tangy flavour, ideal for outdoor celebrations.

Chai spice provides a warm and spicy kick, perfect for autumn or winter weddings.

Salted caramel is a sweet and salty combination that's always a crowd-pleaser.

Personalisation

When choosing a wedding cake flavour, consider your wedding theme, personal taste, and any dietary restrictions your guests may have. You can also combine your favourite flavours in each tier of a multi-tiered cake. Adding a personal touch, incorporating your wedding colours, or choosing alternative shapes can make your cake stand out.

How to order the right-sized wedding cake

Ordering a wedding cake is an important part of planning a wedding. Here are some tips to ensure you order the right size:

Number of Guests

A common calculation for wedding cake allows for one slice of bride’s cake per guest and a half slice of groom’s cake. So, for 100 guests, you would need 100 servings of the bride’s cake and 50 servings of the groom’s cake. However, it is becoming more common for some guests to decline a slice of cake, so you can usually order enough for just 80% of your guests.

Number of Cakes

If you are having more than one cake, remember that the 80% rule includes all cakes, not just the main bride's cake.

Other Desserts

If you are planning to have a full dessert table or serve a dessert with dinner, you will need much less cake. You can probably order about 50% cake and fill in with the additional desserts for everyone else.

Saving the Top Tier

If you want to save the top tier of your wedding cake to eat on your first wedding anniversary, you will need to order a larger cake. You could also just save a couple of slices if you don't want to save a whole tier.

Self-Serve vs. Served

If you are having a self-serve cake station, you can order less cake than if you are serving cake with dinner, where you will need a slice for each place setting.

Cost-Saving Tips

To save money, you could ask your baker about serving smaller slices. You could also create the illusion of a larger cake with "fake cake" by having a layer or two made from styrofoam. Another option is to use sheet cakes to accommodate extra servings, while having a less expensive cake on display.

Frequently asked questions